Pipeline debate draws big crowd - The PIPE UP Network

Pipeline debate draws big crowd

Kinder Morgan plans 7-fold increase in oil tankers

There were cheers, jeers and a lot of applause echoing throughout the District of North Vancouver's council chamber Thursday night.

The district hosted a public meeting on the proposed Trans Mountain pipeline expansion by Kinder Morgan, with Mayor Richard Walton mediating. The public was free to ask questions to any of the panel speakers that included representatives from Kinder Morgan, the Georgia Strait Alliance, Tsleil-Waututh Nation and Port Metro Vancouver.

MLAs Ralph Sultan, West Vancouver-Capilano, and Jane Thornthwaite, North Vancouver-Seymour, were also in attendance though neither took part in the discussions.

"Our goal tonight is to provide you with information from a variety of perspectives so you can be better informed on this issue," said Walton, addressing an overflowing room.

Each panelist had 10 minutes to present, and were subsequently quizzed by district councillors. Members of the public had one minute to ask a question and the panelists had two minutes to respond.